New e-book: The Spanish-American War: A Brief History. Relatively short, introductory read for casual history buffs and people who want to learn more about a forgotten war that changed America. Available at BN.com, Smashwords, Kobo, and Diesel E-Books right now. Same link as above.

We usually do every summer. We released a few Grand Rapids players a few days ago, and these are just their replacements. Glendening-style signings that are destined for the AHL unless they surprise management and fill a much needed role. Which I don't think Porter or Miele do.

New e-book: The Spanish-American War: A Brief History. Relatively short, introductory read for casual history buffs and people who want to learn more about a forgotten war that changed America. Available at BN.com, Smashwords, Kobo, and Diesel E-Books right now. Same link as above.

Since Blashill took over down there, the answer is yes. That hasn't been the case with our coaches in the past who haven't done much with the talent they have been given. A strong farm system is just as valuable as a strong NHL team.

Anyone else think a trade involving GR prospects are coming? We've signed a lot of these guys lately.

No, they are filling holes on the roster, especially at C, where the Griffs were quite weak following the departure of Emmerton, Jarnkrok etc.

Miele is a ppg AHL player, I expect he'll be the 1C with Mantha/Jurco and Pulkinen on his wings

"If I can be totally honest, it's not a lot of guys you get impressed by. Actually, it's no one else but him. From the bench, to see what move he makes -- you're like, 'I wish I could do that.' Sometimes you sit on the bench and just think, 'wow,' and you look over to the other bench and they sit there and shake their heads, too. He has great, great skills. I'm probably not going to play with another player who has the kind of skills he has." Mikael Samuelsson on Pavel Datsyuk